FRIENDS

Interview
Examiner: Who is your best friend? (How would you describe him/her?)
Candidate: My best friends name is [...]. Weve known each other for about ten years. To describe him/her I
should say he/she is so understanding and confidant...uhm... he/she also has a great sense of
humour...er... so lively and full of fun; always running around and laughing.
Alternative answers:
The name of my best friend is [...]. In fact , he/shes a distant cousin of mine. He/she is a true
friend in all senses of the word. He/she is such a supportive person that I can always count on. You
know, when a problem occurs, he/she is always ready to back me up.
Your answer:..........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Why do you call this person your best friend?
Candidate: Because of his/her unique qualities. A friend in need is a friend indeed. He/she is really
supportive and always willing to help me out when a problem comes up...um... he/she is such a
caring person. I always treasure his/her friendship.
Alternative answers:
I regard him/her as my best friend because he/she is the kind of person you can always rely on.
He/she is really and truly encouraging and helpful. I think very highly of him/her.
Your answer:..........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Name three words that can be best used to describe your best friend.
Candidate: I would say inspiring, conscientious and understanding.
Alternative answers:
I would say outgoing, trustworthy and thoughtful.
Um... let me think, articulate, supportive and cheerful.
Well, I would think dignified, tactful and perceptive.
I think the best words would be loyal, bright; and genuine.
Its an interesting question. Words like motivation, 'perseverance and creativity would best
describe his /her personality.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Do you have a lot friend?
Candidate: Yes, quite a few. I have friends from all walks of life. Of course, some of them are only
casual friends like my friends at work, but I also have some intimate friends.
Alternative answers:
Yes. You could say a load of friends! In general, I prefer to socialise with all people who are

around me, thats why I have so many friends.

Er.. .not a lot, only a few friends. I prefer having a few close friends to having many
Perhaps, it is because of my personality type.

causal

friends.

Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: In your free time, would you prefer to be alone or to be with friends?
Candidate: I tend to be with my friends. At work, I spend most of my time alone in my office, I so after
work, I enjoy the company of my friends. 1I often invite myfriends over, we chat the whole
evening. I wish I had a larger circle of friends.
Alternative answers:
It depends, for example, sometimes I prefer to be with my friends and sometimes I just want I to
relax without anyone disturbing me.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What does friendship mean to you?
Candidate: In a word, trust.
Alternative answers:
Friendship means a lot to me. I feel a good friendship is a blessing and a gift from God.
Truly good friends are hard to find, harder to leave, and impossible to forget.
I can hardly define the word 'friendship' as it goes further than a simple sentence, but the only
thing that 1 can say is that it is the source of inspiration, affection and encouragement.
A good friendship is priceless. It is a lifelong, and worthwhile job. It is truly the basis of any good
relationship. It can be defined as a harmonious relationship between two people.
To me, friendship is a sweet responsibility; never an opportunity.
True friends are like diamonds, precious and rare. False friends are like autumn leaves found
everywhere.
A mutual relationship. Within a good friendship, we feel totally free. There is no need to
pretend anything because we know wc are accepted as we are.
Your answer:.................................................................................................................................
Examiner: If you had to choose three words to describe your roommate, what would you say?
Candidate: Well, it is a difficult question...er...I would say sociable, considerate and helpful.
Alternative answers:
I would think diligent, agreeable and a little bookish!
Let me think independent-minded, introspective and has a competitive spirit.
Your answer:................................................................................................................................

HOME
Interview
Examiner: Can you describe your home?
Candidate: I live on the top floor of a building. Its quite small; about sixty square metres. It has one bed
room and a small living room. Everyone says its too small but I think it's just the right size for
me.
Alternative answers:
Well, we have a two-roomed flat... um... two bedrooms and a small sitting room overlooking the
yard. In spite of being small, I think it is very cosy and convenient.
Our flat is medium-sized. Um... we have two bedrooms, a study and a living room.
We live in a flat in the old section of the city. It was once a three-story house that was converted
into several flats. Now ten families live in our building. We live on the third floor. We have three
bedrooms...um...the spare bedroom also serves as a study. There is a large living room and a
kitchen with a small balcony overlooking a street.
Our flat is kind of small for four people. Its about sixty meters. Of course, we arc used to it. We
share a garden with other residents in the block.
Your answer:........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What is your favourite room?
Candidate: My favourite room would have to be our sitting room. Since it is north-facing, it is brighter than
the other rooms. Secondly, the balcony of our living room overlooking a beautiful flower bed
full of climbing roses.
Alternative answers:
It would have to be our living room...um... because I have tried to create an inviting atmosphere
by using different combination of colours. It is so lively, and tastefully- decorated. I always try to
keep it neat and tidy.
Probably our living room. Because we often gather together there, after we come home from
work.
Our family room. Its a comfortable and well-lit room with a pleasing dcor. Its traditional- looking
with lots of antique furniture. There is a rocking chair in the corner of the room.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................

Examiner: Describe your sitting room.

Candidate: Well, Its L-shaped, quite spacious and airy. It is so bright and we get a lot of sunlight; there arc
windows on two sides of the room. There is a fireplace in the corncr of the room and wallpaper
is matched with the furnishings. We have a TV, sofa ...um...and bookcase in our sitting room.
Alternative answers:
We have a rug, a set of chairs and a dinner table and a TV set there. Er...the floor of our sitting
room covered with fitted carpet. Its not very large, I like it though.
Your answer:........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Where do you live?
Candidate: Well, that is not so easy to answer...er...during the weekdays 1 live in the dormitory of my
university, but over the weekends, I live with my parents in a small town called [...]. At
present, 1 really do not know which one to call my home.
Alternative answers:
At present, I am sharing an apartment with a couple of friends. It is in a city called [...]. Er.. .it has
three rooms; one of the rooms is mine.
1 live on the outskirts of [...], a city close to [...] city...er... it's just 30 kilometres west of [...] city.
I live in an area called [...]; a densely populated area of the town.
Your answer:............................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What do you like best about the place you are living?
Candidate: Er.. .its location. Our flat is very well-located. We have easy access to most major motorways.
Alternative answers:
Its green space for sure. I live in a house overlooking a large garden. It has made our home so
beautiful.
Its location. Its perfectly situated between two main streets called [...] and [...] so there are lots of
stylish shops and boutiques close to our home.
Your answer:..........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: How far is your home from your workplace?
Candidate: Wc live in one of the suburbs of the city. My workplace is about ten kilometres away from my
home. It usually takes me about half an hour or so to get to my work.
Alternative answers:
My home is quite close to my workplace. I can walk there in about ten minutes.
Your answer:..........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What would you like to change in your home?
Candidate: Well, I would like to do up our sitting room. I think the walls need painting...er... and if I can
afford. I'll refit the kitchen, change the cabinets and have the floor tiled. Now its in poor
condition.

Alternative answers:
I would like to redecorate our guestroom and use livelier colours.
I think 1 should rearrange the furniture in the sitting room, variety is the spice of life.
I would certainly enlarge our sitting room. Thats kind of small.
Adding an extension to our living room to remodel my home, I guess. Fortunately, there is room
for that.
Your answer:..........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Would you prefer living in a house or a flat?
Candidate: On balance, living in a flat is more convenient and secure. On the other hand, the
Alternative answers:
Although most apartments in big cities enjoy modern facilities, I still prefer living in a house. In
my opinion, house-living provides more comfort and independence. Secondly, one of the common
problems of flat-living is that not all residents of flats consider the rights of other neighbours.
Your answer:...........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What is the most important feature that you consider when you choose a house or apartment?
Candidate: Well, a house should basically meet the personal needs of the owner. To me, its facilities arc the
most important of all.
Alternative answers:
Well, personally speaking, price is the most important aspect, however I consider the things like
age, size...urn... style and location.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Do you live with your parents?
Candidate: Actually, I used to, but now. Im living on my own.
Alternative answers:
Yes, I do. I live with my parents.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Describe your dream house.
Candidate: Er...let me think, the only thing that comes to my mind is that it would be somewhere on a
hillside overlooking a beautiful lake with lots of rooms. The window of the sitting room would
be like a framed painting.
Alternative answers:
Um... If I could choose my dream home, 1 would say somewhere out of town with a good climate.
It would be quite roomy, with a large yard and the view of mountains; a place remote from the
noisy cities where you can experience the beauty of nature. Er...I cant think of anything else now.

 Well, it should be a rambling, well-decoratcd and stylish penthouse with good facilities in a quiet
residential area.
Of course, I believe home is where the heart is. Er...to describe my dream house, I should say a
country house in an elevated position, overlooking a lake.
Your answer:...........................................................................................................................................
NEIGHBOURHOOD
Interview
Examiner: Describe your neighbourhood.
Candidate: I live in a quiet neighbourhood in the north of [...] city. Fortunately, there are plenty of public
facilities in our neighbourhood, such as parks...er...cultural centres and libraries.
Alternative answers:
I live in [...] city. Even though it is a very large city, we live in a part that is like a small village.
We know everyone there. There is a very large park just in front our home...uhm...there is a bus
stop so we can easily go anywhere in the city.
I live in a neighbourhood which is quite close to the city centre. Its so convenient for shopping.
There are many shops, restaurants and a variety of businesses.
Your answer:..........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: How long have you lived there?
Candidate: I have lived there since I was ten...uhm... for about eighteen years.
Alternative answers:
I have lived there since 2003.
Your answer:..........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Have you noticed a lot of changes during that time?
Candidate: Yes, I have witnessed lots of changcs; beyond recognition. Its a much nicer place to live now
than it used to be. Also, over the last few years, the municipality of our city has planted trees
everywhere. Its much greener now. Above all, the transport facilities of our area have been
considerably developed.
Alternative answers:
Not really, unfortunately, our neighbourhood has been kind of overlooked.
Your answer:..........................................................................................................................................

Examiner: Do you like the place where you live?

Candidate: Absolutely, the main reason is that it is right in the heart of the city and whatever I need is just

outside the door.

Alternative answers:
Oh, sure. We live in a quiet neighbourhood, there is no noise at all, more importantly, neighbours
are very nice and friendly.
Uhm...not very much, the reason is that, unfortunately some of our neighbours are inconsiderate
and noisy.
Your answer:...........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What do you think your neighbourhood/area is missing?
Candidate: Um... a community centre, I think.
Alternative answers:
Er...a medical ccntre, unfortunately, theres no hospital in the immediate vicinity.
Your answer:...........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What are your neighbours like?
Candidate: We have good neighbours. Most of them look out for cach other and are always willing to help. In
other words, there is a sense of belonging in our neighbourhood.
Alternative answers:
Generally speaking, the people who are living in our building are warm and friendly.
Noisy, gossipy and selfish. With neighbours like that who needs enemies!
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: How would you describe a good neighbour?
Candidate: In my opinion, a good neighbour respects the rights of other neighbours and possibly makes
contributions to the development of the neighbourhood.
Alternative answers:
To my view, a good neighbour is helpful, considerate and caring.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
HOLIDAY
Interview
Examiner: Describe a tourist attraction/holiday resort/ landmark/ traditional market/ park/street/
stadium/ climbing trail in your country. (What is it famous for?
Explain.)
Candidate: Mashad, a holy city in the north east of Iran. Its name literally means place of martyrdom. The
city is blessed and...er... notably known as the resting place of Imam Reza (Peace be upon him).

Every year, millions of people come from near and far to go on a pilgrimage to Imam Rczas
shrine. You can absolutely experience a great spiritual journey.
Alternative answers:
I would like to talk about Esfahan (city); one the most important tourist centres in Iran. It is
famous for its unique architecture and considered as the home of traditional arts. There arc many
absolutely wonderful examples of Iranian handicrafts; the best silverware and embroidery are
made there. Er... there are many tourist attractions in this city. Visitors come from quite long
distances to do sightseeing. You can hardly save time to rest while you arc there!...er... there are so
many plaecs of interest. One of the most famous picturesque places of this city is called Siyosehpol, you know, it is a bridge, made of a scries of 33 arches. It's definitely a sightseers paradise.
Shriraz. It is certainly one the most attractive cities in my country. You know, a delightful city in
the south west of Iran. Its also known as the city of poetry; Shira/ is the birthplace and resting
place of the great Persian poets, Saadi and Hafez. In a word, it is a city full of culture and history.
Persepolis; a historical site from the Achacmenid period, situated near Shiraz (city). You can
see many splendid monuments, amazing columns and breathtaking stone carvings. Its
absolutely a great place to visit.
Bam city, an ancient mud-walled citadel in Kerman province; a major tourist attraction in Iran.
Unfortunately the tragic earthquake which broke out in 2003 destroyed many parts of this mud
structure. Now. its is being rebuilt and restored. Visiting Bam isnt just about looking at a mud
brick city; it is also about observing history, culture and ancient lifestyle of a city. Its definitely
worth visiting.
Ali Sadr Cave, an amazing natural water cave. As far as I know, its located about hundred
kilometres north of Hamedan (city). The cave has a river flowing through it. The water is crystal
clear. Most of the trip is done by boat. Er...only some parts of the cavc corridors have been
discovered, its stunningly beautiful.
Of course, 1 think every city has a lot to offer, but if 1 had only one choice I would choose Yazd
(city); an ancient city in the ccntre of Iran. Its called the city of 'wind catchers' or 'wind towers'; a
structure built to create natural ventilation in buildings. They are usually seen in various designs,
such as square and octagon and other shapes....er...impressively beautiful. Well, the people of this
city arc so hospitable and welcoming. Yazd is a beautiful city that no visitor should miss.
Thats the mausoleum of Ebn Sina (Avicenna) in Hamedan (city), a genius Iranian scholar,
philosopher, physician, astronomer and mathematician. It attracts numerous visitors each year. This
monumental towering structure has great architecture; so impressive and unique. There is an
exhibition and a library with a number of manuscripts about his life and his
Id like to talk about the Traditional Bazaar of Tehran (city); the focal point of the city. Its a great place to
stroll through and shop around; there are lots of shopping opportunities in that market. The best way to
explore the Bazaar of Tehran is simply to wander its labyrinth of streets and alleys. Its architecture rooted
in Iranian lifestyle. You know, its more like a maze...uhm...you should be careful not to get lost. It is said
that if you wait long enough there, youll meet everyone youve ever known!
Yes. The bazaar of Tabriz (city ) located in the city centre and considered as an important place for
commerce. It consists of some sub-bazaars or traditional markets in various fields including the bazaar
for gold and jewellery, shoe bazaar...er...carpets and many other businesses for other goods.
Azadi sport complex. It is located in the west part of Tehran (city) and has a seating capacity of 100,000
spectators. Most of the top matches of Iranian leagues are held there.
Well, Azadi square. Let me explain, it is in the west of Tehran ...er...and is the first landmark that

visitors come across when arriving from the Mehrabad airport. This structure has a beautiful exterior;
made of white marble and....uhm... is very tall, maybe forty metres high or so. Its architecture has
become an icon for Tehran (city).
Milad Tower... urn... it is situated in the north west of Tehran and can be easily seen from anywhere in
the city. Its strikingly beautiful especially at nights. As far as I know, it is the world's fourth tallest free
standing structure.
There is a very large forest park located just outside Tehran called Chitgar. It has hiking and cycling
facilities... .um... It has a purifying effect on the air quality of Tehran (city) too.
Id like to talk about Valiasre Avenue; the longest street in the Middle-East as far as I know. It is a treelined street which runs from south to north and divides Tehran (city) into western and eastern parts. Its
the hub of many business activities. There are numerous shops, cool restaurants, parks and cultural
centres situated along this avenue.
There is a very popular climbing path in Tehran (city) called TochaF. The trail is divided into seven

stations. On Fridays, you sec lots of people walking, mountain climbing or using the cabin car. What I
like most about Tochal is the panoramic views of Tehran (city). The views are absolutely spectacular.
Er... you can enjoy the mountain air and the scenery. As far as I know Tochal is the closest ski resort to
Tehran. Id recommend anyone to go to there.
Darband is a great mountain resort. The trail is usually crowded at weekends. The path is lined with cafes,
lea houses, drink stalls selling things...er... goodies like, tamarind, dried fruit, fresh raspberries,
cranberries, mulberries and so on. You can enjoy its fresh and unspoiled air in all four seasons.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What do you like most about traveling?
Candidate: Visiting new places. Traveling to different places is one thing, exploring these places is quite
another. Its always thrilling to get to know new and exotic places.
Alternative answers:
I would say visiting different places and meeting new people. These are the things Id I definitely be
fascinated by.
What I like most about traveling is visiting new places and trying new foods. It can be both I exciting and
pleasurable.
Architecture is something Id be enthusiastic about. Looking at buildings is one of my favourite things to
do in a new city.
Its relaxation. I have a busy life. The only time I can really switch off is when Im on vacation.
Exploring new places, especially on foot and poking around in museums, stores and restaurants.
To me, the most interesting thing about traveling is learning how people in other cultures live and
think. Traveling to other places is always a priceless opportunity which promotes cross-cultural
understanding.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What kind of holiday do you like best? (Why?)
Candidate: I like sightseeing a lot because it gives me an opportunity to get acquainted with the history and
culture of other cities and countries.
Alternative answers:

 I like camping a lot. To my view', camping is a great way to get close to nature.
Your answer:........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Which would you prefer, traveling alone or traveling in a group?
Candidate: Traveling alone appeals to me more. Actually, I usually travel to get away from my daily routine
...er... you know, to get peace and quiet.
Alternative answers:
The more the merrier. I much prefer traveling in a group, especially with good conversationalists
where I can enjoy my journey and simply share the tasks.
Traveling in a group sounds to be more fun, you know...er... with entertaining travelling
companions.
Your answer:........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What method of travel do you enjoy most? (Why?)
Candidate: Id prefer traveling by train because in my country, trains are more comfortable to get some sleep
at night, besides, traveling by train allows us to visit more places.
Alternative answers:
Traveling by air. What 1 like most about traveling by air is getting to different places fast. I like
sensing the sudden changes in social atmosphere and climate.
By airplane, because it is the fastest and safest mode of transport.
1 adore traveling by ship. The reason is that it gives me a great feeling of serenity and peace of
mind.
Traveling by car can be a good choice provided that you travel with family members or close
friends. One more point is that you can simply stop by to take rest or...er...enjoy the scenery.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: in your opinion how can we cope with culture shock? (What would you do to overcome culture
shock?)
Candidate: A good way to deal with culture shock or clash of cultures is to avoid having negative
stereotypes about other cultures.
Alternative answers:
Thats an interesting question. In my opinion, the best way to avoid culture shock is not to think
about the cultural behaviour of your country as right and other peoples as wrong

HOBBIES
Likes. Dislikes
Interview

Examiner: What do you usually do in your free time? (What is your favourite pastime/ hobby?) (Why?)
Candidate: Im so busy that I can hardly make any free time. If I ever had free time, I would probably do
many different things to fill my spare time, including playing sports, listening to music and
going out with my friends.
Alternative answers:
Well. I have lots of interests, but Im mainly interested in reading books.
Well, I do a lot of things in my spare time, but mostly, I listen to music; classical music.
It puts me in a good mood.
Im an avid reader. I spend my free time catching up on studying my university books. In my
view, its important to spend time productively.
Well. I am fond of photography, especially landscape photos. Its great fun.
My favourite hobby is painting. I love colours and I do some oil and watercolours in my free
time. Its a hobby that I get absolutely engrossed in. I usually lose track of time and paint for
hours. I particularly like to do landscape. Its great to be able to capture a scenery on your canvas.
I usually do crossword puzzles in my free time. Mental activities help sharpen memory.
I do various things in my spare time, but cooking is my passion. I took a cooking class just two
months ago.
To be honest, all my friends say that Im a real mouse potato, perhaps 1 am. But you can call me
a movie buff too. I spend lots of time surfing the internet looking for film reviews.
I love hiking. I belong to a hiking group we go to different places almost every weekend. It's not
an expensive leisure activity, and you dont need much equipment for it , all you need is a pair of
hiking boots and strong legs for walking. Its a great way to keep fit and healthy in this way.
I go rock climbing for fun. I love its challenge. Its thrilling.
I have itchy feet; just want to travel to different places. You can always learn a lot when
travelling.
I usually go camping with my friends if the spirit moves me. My favourite camping destination is
an area which is amazingly lush and green, you know, camping allows me to get away from stress
and preoccupations.
I love anything that involves being active and being outdoors. I usually go walking in my spare
time. 1 think walking is a great way to decrease daily stress.
Im a bird of passage, a real outdoor type. I never ever stay indoors. 1 usually spend my free
time outside enjoying the nature. Sometimes, I do need R&R (Rest & Recreation) to let my hair
down!
I have a fondness in gardening. Maybe youd like to know why. To me, gardening is a great way
to spend quality time...urn... develop patience and relieve stress. It also gives me physical
exercise, and I feel rejuvenated while gardening.
I'm a real fitness freak. I go to the gym to work out almost everyday. I do different kinds of
exercise. It refreshes my body and mind.
Im a fitness fanatic! I work out everyday for a couple of hours to keep fit and...er... keep my
spirits up.
I go running with friends on alternate days. In a job that is largely sedentary, its importa nt to stay

physically healthy.
Well, in winter, 1 usually go skiing, and in summer, I tend to go outdoor swimming, leisure activities help
us cope with mechanical life.
Im a keen swimmer. I love swimming and lazing by the pool. Its so relaxing.
Im crazy about skiing! In fact, Im a ski instructor and give lessons. I first went with my father
when I was ten years old and I've been skiing ever since. Id recommend anyone go for it.
Well, I'm very sporty, but my most favourite sport is table tennis. I would play everyday if I could,
but...well...I usually end up playing about once or twice a week.
In my spare time, I participate in community service activities. It helps me meet people from all walks of
life, thereby helps to develop my interpersonal skills.
Id rather indoor hobbies like doing crosswords, playing chess and so on. You know, such things
help me concentrate better.
I am keen on DIY activities (Do it yourself). I love repairing, decorating and things of the same
kind. I think it is a very good hobby for those who want to make the best use of the time.
I love playing the piano. I really do. Im pretty good at it. I can pick up a tune instantly. Playing
the piano gives me a sense of peace.
There is no hard and fast rule on how I spend my leisure time or weekends. Sometime I go out
with my friends, and sometimes I just flip through magazine to fill my free time.
Im into collecting antique furniture in a big way. In fact, my collection is my treasured
possession. Im even thinking of turning it into my job. It would be quite lucrative business.
I collect coins for pleasure. To me, coin collecting is a great way to learn about history and culture
of other countries.
I really take pleasure in collecting stamps. You know, I took up this hobby when I was school
student. Um...in a word, my stamp collection is my pride and joy. For me, it brings back lots of
good memories.
I'm a philatelist. I've been collecting stamps for five years. I also collect postcards and coin from
all over the world. Ive made load of new friends through this hobby.
Your answer:.......................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Why have you chosen stamp collecting as your hobby?
Candidate: Stamp collecting is a hobby which provides enjoyment and education. When you collect stamps,
you can learn more about the world, one more point is that you cat meet new friends through
your hobby. It also helps me have a common interest with others. Most importantly, this hobby
teaches me some sort of selfdiscipline.... er... and how to be organised.
Alternative answers:
I consider stamps as works of art; colourful, well-printed and well-designed. Stamp
collecting is a good way to increase general information about other countries.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Do you belong to a health club?
Candidate: Yes, I do. I am a member of a health club. I go there every other day.

Alternative answers:
Not at present, actually...urn... my health club membership is up. I should renew my subscription.
Your answer:.......................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What was your childhood hobby?
Candidate: Well, 1 used to paint. Actually, I still do. I have some paintings in a gallery right now.
Alternative answers:
I used to collect stamps when 1 was a kid.
Your answer:......................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Did you have a favourite game when you were a child?
Candidate: Sure, I did. My favourite game was chess. My grandfather taught mehowto play. In my view,
childhood is the most formative period of life.
Alternative answers:
Oh, sure. I was very naughty when I was a kid; a ball of fire, really. I was fond of playing hide and
seek. It was always a lot of fun. My friends and 1 used to play almost every day.
Yes. I have vivid memories from my childhood. 1 used to play...er... board games, yo-yo and...er....
kite-flying.
Your answer:......................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Do you like visiting art galleries? (Why/ not?)
Candidate: Yes, to a great extent. Im a real art lover. From my perspective, museums have an important role
in preserving our historical heritage.
Alternative answers:
Yes, especially painting exhibitions. 'A picture is worth a thousand words.
Yes, a lot. They are certainly of cultural value. But I rarely go to such places these days. Im more
involved with university exams.
Your answer:.......................................................................................................................................
Examiner: How often do you go to an amusement park?
Candidate: Im not sure. Urn...once in six months or so.
Alternative answers:
Almost never. Unfortunately, Im too busy with my work.
Your answer:......................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Do you like going to amusement parks? (Why /not?)
Candidate: Yes, a lot. In my opinion, theme parks provide fun and thrills for allmembers of family.
Moreover, such places promote family outings.
Alternative answers:

 No, I dont. You know, such places arc usually crowded. I'd much prefer natural places...er...
where I can enjoy the scenic beauty.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: How often do you go to the cinema?
Candidate: Im a real cinema-goer. Maybe six times in a month. I usually follow the latest films.
Alternative answers:
Not very often. Only when my favourite actors play lead roles.
Pretty often. Four times or so in a month.
I go to the cinema whenever 1 can. It depends whether theres something worth watching or not.
Im quite picky about what to see.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: When did you last go to the cinema?
Candidate: Pretty recently; just a few days ago.
Alternative answers:
Three months ago, 1 guess.
Your answer:........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Do you like watching films? (Why /not?)
Candidate: Yes, I do, especially, romance films.
Alternative answers:
Um... It usually depends on the type of the film.
Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What kinds of films do you like?
Candidate: I am very keen on comedy films. Most of them are amusing and hilarious.
Alternative answers:
I particularly like action films because most of them are dramatic and gripping. You know, actionpacked films arc full of adventure and exciting events.
I tend to go for horror films, especially the films directed by [...]; you know, a director of
considerable merit.
I am very much fascinated by comedies. First of all, most comedies are great fun. Secondly, they
seldom have violent scenes, above all, comedies often contain brilliant acting by famous actors.
Your answer:.............................................................................................................................
Examiner: Do you like science fiction films? (Why /not?)
Candidate: Not really, because of the excessive special effects which are usually used in such films and
also the plots are usually overdramatic.
Alternative answers:

 Oh, of course, such films usually increase imagination power.

Your answer:.............................................................................................................................
Examiner: What sort of television programmes do you like watching? (Why?)
Candidate: I like sitcoms a lot because they are usually humorous and entertaining.
Alternative answers:
I like soaps. Most of them are good fun.
1 tend to watch documentary programmes. The reason is that, most documentaries arc educational and
often have items about nature. In other words, there is always something new to be learned.
My favourite type of TV programme is documentaries because I usually learn a great deal about different
subjects. For example, when you watch a programme related to animals, you can learn about their
habitats, survival and that sort of thing. 1 don't usually miss them.
Almost all types of TV programmes, but mainly news. I usually keep up with world affairs by watching
news.
Reality TV shows. They aren't scenario-based. You can see natural scenes and behaviour. My favourite
programme is [...]; a top-rated TV show.
I usually follow the news. I also enjoy round-table talks.
Your answer:......................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Do you like listening to music?
Candidate: Yes, music means a lot to me. 1 enjoy almost all types of music. I cant imagine what my life
would be like without music. Music always brings comfort and pleasure to us.
Alternative answers:
It depends on the type of the music. 1 particularly like classical music. I have a large collection of
classical CDs.
Yes, 1 do. In fact, a love of music runs in our family.
Yeah, it helps me unwind after a busy day.
Your answer:.......................................................................................................................................
Examiner: What kind of music do you enjoy most?
Candidate: Well, I usually listen to traditional music. I don't think there is any other type of music that has
such soothing melodies. The lyrics arc usually deep and meaningful.
Alternative answers:
I like pop music very much. The reason is that pop music is usually lively and makes me feel more
energetic.
Well. 1 like almost all types of music, but I dont care for traditional music. It makes me feel bored or
something. 1 guess classical music is my favourite.
Oh. sure, I am really into music, particularly classical music. To my mind, classical music is the most
expressive type of music in terms of the range of feelings that it can convey; classical music usually has
slow rhythm and pleasant melodies.
In fact, I enjoy almost all kinds of music except loud and obnoxious music. These songs arent really to
my taste.

 Almost all types, except electronic music. To be frank, this type of music is not my cup of tea!
I have very eclectic tastes in music; there isn't really one music style that I like. I tend to choose what to
listen to, according to my mood. Sometime classical...er... and sometimes popular music.
Your answer:......................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Has your taste in music changed?
Candidate: Yes, to a great extent. I used to listen to folk music, now Im more attracted to classical music. I
have quite a few DVDs at home.
Alternative answers:
No, I dont think so. Classical music has always been my favourite type of music.
Your answer: ........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Who is your favourite singer? (Why?)
Candidate: Im a real admirer of [...]; a man of many talents. He is gifted with a superb singing voice. In my
opinion, he is the most perfect singer in all aspects...urn... music knowledge, voice flexibility, style of singing
and ...urn... stage performance. You know, his last album had huge success. I believe he deserves his
reputation.
Alternative answers:
I am a big fan of [...]. He's blessed with a wonderful singing voice. I think he is perfectly able to convey
all the emotions that are necessary in a performance of a song. His best-know song is [...]; a massive hit
which was released last year in [...] album. He is regarded as a representative of the youth of his
generation.
My favourite singer is [...], a great singer with velvety voice. I love the texture of his voice. From my
point of view, his style of singing is really emotional. His music has wide appeal. He has kept his fans
enthralled with his voice for many years. All these years, the quality of his voice has never wavered;
always sweet, always divine.
Although his music is sort of individualistic and may not appeal to everyone. I adore his style. I believe
his music is an integration of tradition and new technology. One more point is that his knowledge of
music is impressively extensive.
Your answer:........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Do you like reading? (Why /not?). (What kinds of books do you enjoy reading?)
Candidate: Oh, certainly. Reading is the best way to enhance our knowledge. Its very important from that
point of view. I usually read [...] magazine, you know, a scientific magazine with a weekly
circulation of over 10,000.
Alternative answers:
I enjoy reading quite a range of books, but mainly autobiography, the reason is that I just enjoy reading
about famous peoples lives, and the adventures theyve got into. In fact, you get to know these people,
their works and what they have done from another perspective, and sometimes it can be quite different
from what you might hear about them by the media.
Yes, I do. I believe that all of us should devote enough time to reading. When you read books, you
acquire new knowledge which in turn broadens your views on important matters.

 Your answer:.........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Do you enjoy reading novels? (Why /not?)
Candidate: Yes, I do. The main reason is that I can usually get away from my daily grind by following the
plot of the novel and getting involved in the characters and their dreams.
Alternative answers:
No, really. You know, most of them have too many characters and are very complicated to follow.
Your answer:........................................................................................................................................
Examiner: Do you like reading fiction? (Why /not?)
Candidate: Yes, I do, especially poetry fiction. You can always find pithy and enlightening points in such
books. They also enhance imagination.
Alternative answers:
Um...On a case by case basis. For example, 1 like the books written by [...]. He/she is simply a writer of
great imagination and originality. His/her works arc very highly regarded, and appeal to every taste.
Your answer:..........................................................................................................................................